British Indian businessman and UK House of Lords member Lord Rami Ranger praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and welcomed the signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), calling it a “historic and win-win” opportunity for both nations.

Speaking to IANS ahead of PM Modi’s two-day visit to the United Kingdom, Lord Ranger said, “It will be a significant day as the Prime Minister signs an FTA with the country that once ruled India. We were once a colony, and today we stand as equals. This development is the result of Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and vision.”

Ranger emphasized the transformative changes in India over the past decade, citing initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and India’s growing global stature. He added that the FTA will create economic momentum, promote technology transfer, and bring stability to the markets of both countries. “The British economy will also benefit from being plugged into India’s growth story,” he said.

Ramesh Arora, another London-based businessman, expressed excitement about PM Modi’s visit, saying, “What he’s doing for our country makes us proud. People here are eager to celebrate with him.”

Jayu Shah of Friends of India Society International (FISI) added, “Negotiations for the FTA have gone on for two decades. Now, under PM Modi, the deal is finally happening. India is emerging as a global leader.”

The India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, established in 2021, has seen rapid growth across trade, defence, education, and climate cooperation. Under the new FTA, 99% of Indian exports to the UK will enjoy zero-duty access, with a goal to double trade to $120 billion by 2030.